The former independent councillor died on February 16 after being diagnosed with leukaemia last year, and hundreds of mourners came to pay their respects at his funeral on Monday.
Mr Emslie, who lived in Evan Street, was born and brought up in Stonehaven where he spent 30 years as an electrician before being elected as an independent councillor in 1980, a post he held for eight years.
A freemason and provincial grand master of the lodge of Kincardineshire, Mr Emslie is credited with many achievements, including being a strong influence in the building of the town's leisure centre. He was also a chairman of the Recreation Ground Trustees group and the area tourist board, a member of the RNLI inshore lifeboat crew and participated in Stonehaven's ancient fireball swinging tradition for more than 50 years.
Mr Emslie lost his wife Moira, also an active member of the community, 10 years ago to cancer.
The couple took early retirement and spent their time hillwalking, playing golf and travelling the world.
Mr Emslie leaves behind four children, Keith Emslie, 54, Gillian Walker, 52, Alan Emslie, 50, and Elaine Grelak, 40. He also leaves 11 grandchildren, aged between six and 30, and four great-grandchildren.
Mr Emslie, who was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease seven years ago, was also diagnosed with an aggressive form of leukaemia in December.
Speaking on behalf of the family, daughter Gillian said: "Dad was always there for us. He was a good listener and always gave good sound advice. He had an incredibly positive attitude towards life. He will be greatly missed by all of the family."
Stonehaven councillor Wendy Agnew said: "He was a great asset for the town. He was a man that had Stonehaven in his heart and he would do the best he could for the people of Stonehaven. He will be very sadly missed."